FARMING IS FEMALE

Meet some of the women transforming the agricultural industry.

Although, as one of the book’s subjects points out, “95% of farmers in the United States are White…and 64%…are male,” female agriculturists of color are well represented in this probing volume; several identify as queer. A strong social justice thread runs through the work. Many of the subjects are outspoken about the racism and sexism they’ve encountered, like Lupe Gonzalo, who advocates for the rights of farmworkers. Others, like food scientist Bianca Datta and Tepfirah Haana Rushdan, who works for the city of Detroit, are deeply committed to sustainability. In addition to farmers, readers will meet a supply chain facilitator, numerous educators, an anthropologist, and a sociologist studying systemic oppression in the farming industry. Sidebars expand the scope of the book with explorations of relevant socio-historical topics, such as the impact of colonization. Lively, conversational profiles each include a full-page color photo, as well as basic info such as the subject’s farm and location, pronouns, and social media contacts. Interspersed questions ask readers to consider where the food they consume is produced and to imagine themselves as ranchers; recipes and clearly outlined activities (such as setting up a garden on a windowsill) will also spur involvement. The vibrant layout is attractive, while the book’s brilliant color photos are filled with sunlight and greenery.

A nourishing and inspiring bounty of STEM opportunities.